In the 18th and 19th centuries, Gretna Green, a small village on the Scottish border, became famous for runaway elopements. Couples from England would flee to Gretna to escape the strict marriage laws of their home country, which required parental consent for anyone under 21. Scotland, however, allowed couples to marry quickly without such restrictions. The blacksmith at Gretna Green often served as the officiant for these hasty, romantic unions, adding to the allure of the location as a place where love triumphed over convention.
Inspired by this rich history, Kathryn Hastings created a limited edition collector’s wax seal, intricately depicting two lovers riding on horseback, racing toward freedom in Gretna Green. Drawing inspiration from an antique in the Marbled Paper Studios collection, Kathryn’s design captures the thrill and romance of the lovers’ escape. The seal is a tribute to the enduring spirit of love, adventure, and the timeless appeal of sealing moments with beauty and meaning.